Longtime Rochester Anchor Norma Holland ’97 Appointed to SUNY Geneseo’s College Council

Norma Holland ’97 (SUNY Geneseo/Mat Johnson)

Norma Holland ’97, a familiar face to Rochester viewers through 23 years at 13WHAM News, will bring her experience in journalism, higher education, and community leadership to SUNY Geneseo’s College Council. Governor Kathy Hochul appointed the Geneseo alumna to a six-year term.

Holland earned her bachelor’s degree in communication with a minor in public relations at Geneseo before building a career connecting people with the information and organizations that shape their communities. Her appointment brings that experience back to her alma mater as it advances its mission as New York’s Public Honors College.

“Many people across our region know Norma as someone who helped them understand what was happening in their communities and why it mattered,” said SUNY Geneseo President Melinda D. Treadwell, PhD. “We are proud to count her among Geneseo’s graduates. She brings an understanding of this college and the region we serve, along with a career that demonstrates the reach of a Geneseo education. Her perspective will help us strengthen those connections and expand opportunities for our students.”

During her broadcasting career, Holland anchored 13WHAM’s morning and noon newscasts, covered breaking news and community stories, and produced the weekly public affairs program Many Voices, Many Visions.

She later brought her communications and community engagement experience to the University of Rochester, most recently serving as chief of staff for the Office of University Engagement and Enrichment. There, she worked with senior leaders on communications and stakeholder engagement and oversaw the launch of a campus-wide constructive dialogue initiative to strengthen civic discourse. She previously served in public relations, community engagement, and leadership roles at the university’s School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Holland is now an executive presence and leadership coach with Holland Communications, LLC. Her community service includes board membership with Bishop Kearney High School, the Alzheimer’s Association of Rochester, and Huther Doyle Substance Abuse Services. She has also served on the boards of the Bivona Child Advocacy Center, Rochester Downtown Development Corporation, and Causewave Community Partners.

“Geneseo is an important part of my story, and it means a great deal to have the opportunity to give back,” Holland said. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen how much depends on our ability to listen, ask good questions, and connect with people whose experiences differ from our own. Those qualities are at the heart of a Geneseo education. I’m proud to help more people across our region see what this college makes possible for its students.”

The College Council serves as an advisory and oversight body for the College, with responsibilities that include recommending candidates for president, reviewing major plans and policies, and fostering strong connections between the College and the community.

About SUNY Geneseo

Founded in 1871, SUNY Geneseo is New York’s Public Honors College. Geneseo provides a distinctive, equity-centered honors experience that equips students with the knowledge and skills to build a better world, guided by the values of learning, creativity, belonging, civic engagement, and sustainability.